Russell Martin admires Aaron Judge and his race at the circuits

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Even though he is now retired, Russell Martin continues to follow major league baseball news daily. Of course, he follows Aaron Judge's circuit race with interest.  

“I find it incredible what he [Judge] is realizing, underlined Martin when we met him Monday, during the golf tournament Théo & ; Louis at Le Mirage Golf Club. Him, there is no question. Its power is natural.

“If he breaks the record, there will be no asterisk next to his name. You know what he does, it's on his own and through training. Hitting 60 homers is exceptional!

“I wish him to break Roger Maris’ [61] record. To hit 62 long balls, that would be special.”

He didn't play with the power hitter when he played for the New York Yankees. 

“He was still young. He was in the minors, said Russell Martin. However, we were already hearing about him. He didn't go unnoticed at 6-foot-8 and 282 lbs. He's a monster.

“Beyond what he can do on a ball diamond, he's such a good person.”

Tough opponent

Martin had the chance to face Judge a few times before the end of his career. As a receiver, the Yankees' number 99 caused some headaches for his opponents. 

“You just have to be careful, said the Quebecer with a smile. He hits the ball so hard. When he was younger, Judge jumped more. I think he's learned to understand the pitching strategies of opposing teams. 

“It looks like he knows now when the pitcher is going to challenge him or he will have a bad pitch.  ;

“His batting eye is better now and that's what makes the difference. His swing is beautiful and refined.”

Happy Retiree

In the last few months, he decided to retire from baseball. A decision he is at peace with. 

“I spend time with my three daughters, one of whom is a month and a half old. I spend a lot of time with them.”

The pandemic was a big factor in choosing Martin.

“During COVID, I received offers, confirmed Martin. It didn't tempt me to play in front of empty bleachers. 

“It's really one of the important reasons. I thought it looked flat. The guys didn't seem to be having as much fun. At the end of my career, I couldn't see myself playing games without the energy of the crowd.

“This situation [not playing due to the pandemic] helped me to make the transition.”

The good news is that he hung up his healthy catcher's glove and mask. He can do physical activities and play with his children freely. 

Besides, he has become a golf fanatic. He plays between 140 and 150 rounds of golf a year.